Former New York governor Eliot Spitzer talks to reporters about his political comeback bid. / Andrew Burton, Getty Images

by Catalina Camia, USA TODAY

by Catalina Camia, USA TODAY

New York City voters appear willing to give former governor Eliot Spitzer a second chance.

Spitzer, who resigned five years ago amid a prostitution scandal, leads Scott Stringer in the race for New York City comptroller, according to a survey released Wednesday by NBC//Wall Street Journal/Marist Poll.

Spitzer has the support of 42% of registered Democrats compared with 33% for Stringer, the Manhattan Borough president.

The former governor surprised many when he said Sunday that he'll ask voters for "forgiveness" and seek the job of the city's top fiscal officer and auditor. Spitzer needs 3,750 signatures by Thursday night to qualify for the ballot.

"My policies and approach to this election will not be determined by polls," Spitzer posted on Twitter. "I am, however, gratified by these numbers and look forward to continuing a conversation with the voters about the issues that matter the most to them."

One notable finding: 67% of Democrats believe Spitzer deserves a second chance. He's also not the only Democrat seeking redemption in the Sept. 10 primary. Former congressman Anthony Weiner, who resigned in 2011 after a sexting scandal, is running for New York City mayor.

The survey of 536 registered Democrats, taken Monday and Tuesday, has a margin of error of +/- 4 percentage points.